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78 comments on “Not-To-Do Lists, Drugs, and Other Productivity Tricks”

Tim– The essay from Sam Harris was fascinating, but he leaves us all hanging with this:

“I believe that psychedelics may be indispensable for some people—especially those who, like me, initially need convincing that profound changes in consciousness are possible. After that, it seems wise to find ways of practicing that do not present the same risks. Happily, such methods are widely available.”

The most normal one would be meditation.
The most interesting one, i would say is holotropic breathing a method developed by psychotherapist Stanislav Grof, when he wanted to continiue to deliver the great results he had with LSD therapy, without using the drug.

The most common one, would be meditation.
However, the most interesting one by far, i believe to be Holotropic breathwork.
Pioneered by Stanislav Grof, a psychotherapist that wanted to induce the same state in his subject as would be created by LSD, without actually using any substances.

Harris mentioned on a Rogan podcast that he has touched the same spots that are comparable to MDMA. I have personally had the experience along with of the clarity moments with difficult issues that psychedelics give you. Even the days of ‘after glow’ that makes what was once a difficult action (cutting off relationships or habits) simply done.

Definitely love this. Have all the books, been a fan for years! One thing I will say is while I do appreciate you uploaded these podcast here, I wish that they were more readily available with Google Play and Android phones. I really dont use Apple, but I use Google Play everyday and to have a similar, singular playlist available on one of those platforms would be cool. Otherwise, everything is cool!

Really, really impressed with these podcasts. The kind of thing I had been wanting from other podcasts but wasn’t really getting. The inbetweenersodes are my favourite, but I do enjoy the longer shows too. I really like the fact that none of the shows feel like the guests are only there to force a product down our throats Tim.

Just listened to the one of psychedelics. Very profound essay. I concur that there should be more research into their medicinal benefit – particularly for treatment of depression and related conditions and also that it is absurd to criminalize their usage.
My only comment would be if you are ever inclined to try them *always* and I mean *always* have an ‘anchor’ – a trustworthy friend who will look after you during your trip.

Tim – I have to say that I love the in-between-i-sodes. I have read these articles on your blog; however hearing you read them and naturally emphasizing the important points is awesome. Thank you for the different perspectives and great thoughts!

I keep them in my audio library for when I feel overwhelmed, confused, or feel like my efforts are wasted; for my own 80/20’s, priorities and operating system.
For example, the last one has had a significant, lasting effect on my last few days, helping me focus on what’s important, rather than what just feels urgent, and ignoring what I feel compelled to do because of expectations of others.

I.e. short form = more practical for managing your own day.
“What is required is not a lot words, but effectual ones.” ~ Seneca

Tim: Keep the episodes of the T. Ferriss show coming! Great links to the other podcasts that you were on. You mentioned in a couple of podcasts that Dr. Roberts had a leathal aneurism, yet his blog says it was from a heart attack. Do you have any updated thoughts on this, and is there anything that you think needs to be added or subtracted from the slow carb diet because of this unfortunate news? Also, do you think that those of us who are not super humans can do anything to be more resilient like the special forces, top hedge fund managers, and yourself? Or, on the other hand, are people who have anxiety and panic attacks stuck with taking drugs like benzos, and becoming so addicted that they can’t get off when they find meditation or whatnot?

Hi, Tim… Thanks for your constant research of life. I have enjoyed your Not-to -do tips. And some of the podcasts are harder to understand for a non-native English listener like me. Are there some transcripts of your podcasts to read. For a example drugs and the meaning of life…